Stage 6 load-shedding continues until further notice

Eskom says load-shedding had to be implemented at stage 6 at 05:00, instead of the previously communicated stage 5.

This, the power utility explains, is due to generating units at Tutuka, Kriel, Duvha and Kendal power stations failing since yesterday.

“Eskom will publish a further update as soon as there are any significant changes,” their tweet at 06:00 states.

In another tweet, posted last night, the embattled power utility mentioned that demand totaled 31 107MW, while Eskom’s availability was 24 721MW. As a result, 6 066MW had to be shed.

Feedback from Evening Peak 20/04/2023 (18:22) pic.twitter.com/sJ9DfFI5Ku

— Eskom Hld SOC Ltd (@Eskom_SA) April 20, 2023

Cabinet briefed on the state of electricity

Meanwhile, lectricity Minister Kgosientsho Ramakgopa on Wednesday briefed Cabinet about the current state of the electricity system as well as progress on the Energy Action Plan.

“The meeting discussed short- and medium-term measures to ensure energy security, taking into account our immediate energy needs,” government acting spokesperson Michael Currin said at the time.

Cabinet directed that a further assessment of the electricity situation and measures to be taken and be addressed at the next National Energy Crisis Committee meeting that will be convened ‘as speedily as possible’.

Government continues to implement the country’s Energy Action Plan in earnest, with the long-term goal of securing continuous, credible energy supply.

To respond to the severe impact of load-shedding on households, small businesses and the economy as a whole, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced a range of measures in July 2022 to improve the performance of existing power stations and add new generation capacity as quickly as possible.

The Energy Action Plan was developed through extensive consultation and endorsed by energy experts to provide the best and fastest path towards energy security.

Government assured citizens that work is underway to improve the performance of power stations to reduce stages of load-shedding while driving work to bring more capacity onto the grid as quickly as possible.

According to government, progress has been made in several areas since the adoption of the Energy Action Plan.

These include the relaxation of some requirements, which will enable quicker procurement, and the removal of licensing requirements for generation projects to enable private investment. – SAnews.gov.za